Allergy Test for Insect Venom (Bee and Hornet)
Do you have an allergy to bee or hornet stings?
Have you ever been stung by a bee or hornet and had a severe reaction? This blood test checks whether you have IgE antibodies to the venom of these insects. The test helps diagnose an allergy and can be important in assessing the risk of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
The analysis is performed using the ImmunoCAP® FEIA method, the global gold standard for detecting specific IgE antibodies.
Which allergens are tested for?
This test detects the presence of specific IgE antibodies against:
- Bee Venom (Apis mellifera) – ImmunoCAP I208
- Hornet Venom (Vespa crabro) – ImmunoCAP I75
When is this test recommended?
This test is recommended if you:
- have been stung by a bee, wasp, or hornet and experienced an allergic reaction;
- experienced severe swelling, hives, or a rash;
- experienced shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting after a sting;
- want to find out if you have an allergy to insect venom;
- to work with a doctor to determine whether further testing or immunotherapy (desensitization) is necessary.
Please note: This test is not intended for use in acute situations. In the event of severe shortness of breath, fainting, or a suspected anaphylactic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.
Background on Bee and Hornet Venom
Bee Venom (Apis mellifera)
Honeybee venom can cause an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals, ranging from significant local swelling to a severe systemic reaction.
Hornet Venom (Vespa crabro)
The European hornet is the largest species of wasp in Europe. A sting is often more painful than that of a common wasp and can also cause severe reactions in people with an allergy.
Test Results
The results are displayed in kU/L.
| Results | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| < 0.35 kU/L | Negative |
| 0.35–1.0 kU/L | Slightly increased |
| 1.0 – 5.0 kU/L | Moderately elevated |
| > 5.0 kU/L | Highly elevated |
An elevated IgE level means that you are sensitized to the insect venom in question. The results must always be interpreted in conjunction with your symptoms and medical history.
How reliable is this test?
- Analysis using the ImmunoCAP® FEIA method (gold standard)
- Sensitivity and specificity of approximately 85–95%
- Performed in an ISO 15189-accredited laboratory
If your results indicate a need for immediate medical attention, a doctor or medical expert will always contact you first.
